Sequoia National Park is a stunning natural area located in California’s Sierra Nevada mountains. It’s known for its giant sequoia trees, some of the tallest and oldest in the world.
Imagine standing under these massive trees with their thick, red trunks reaching high into the sky or enjoying wide mountain views that take your breath away.
Spending 2 Days in Sequoia National Park gives you the perfect chance to explore scenic trails, enjoy peaceful moments in nature, and build lasting memories. This detailed Two Day Itinerary for Sequoia National Park includes all the top sights, helpful travel tips, and everything you need to make your trip smooth and enjoyable.
Pre-Trip Planning: Easy Tips to Get Ready
A bit of planning can make your 2 Days in Sequoia National Park smooth and enjoyable. Here’s what you should know before your trip:
- Getting There: Sequoia National Park is around 4 to 5 hours by car if you start in San Francisco or Los Angeles. Fresno Yosemite International Airport is the closest and only 1.5 hours away. Renting a car is the best option as buses and other transport services are not reliable, especially outside summer.
- Entrance Fees: A vehicle pass costs $35 and works for both Sequoia and Kings Canyon for seven days. You can also buy the America the Beautiful Pass for $80, a great choice if you plan to explore many national parks in one year.
- Best Time to Visit: June to August brings warm days and open trails but also more crowds. April to May shows wildflowers and fewer visitors. September to October is cooler and more peaceful. Winter has snow for snowshoeing, but some roads and spots may close.
- Park Rules: Respect nature by taking your trash with you, staying on marked trails, and keeping space between you and wild animals. Always check the National Park Service website before your visit for updates on road conditions, weather, or wildfire alerts.
Once you’re ready, move on to the exciting part—your Two Day Itinerary for Sequoia National Park!
Day 1: Giant Trees, Scenic Views, and Meadow Magic
Begin your first day in Sequoia by exploring the park’s famous giant sequoia trees, enjoying stunning views, and taking relaxed hikes that are not too difficult. Start your day early to avoid crowds and get the best experience during your 2 Days in Sequoia National Park.
In the Morning
7:00 AM – Arrive at the Park
Begin your day by entering through the Ash Mountain Entrance on Highway 198. The drive takes around 45 minutes after leaving Three Rivers, following a scenic road with beautiful mountain views. Make a quick stop at Tunnel Rock, a huge boulder that sits over the road.
” It’s a great spot for a photo and a fun way to start your visit. “
8:00 AM – Giant Forest Museum
Next, visit the Giant Forest Museum, located about 40 minutes past the entrance. This small but helpful museum gives a clear introduction to the giant sequoias.
Learn about their thick bark, how they survive wildfires, and their history going back thousands of years. Pick up a park map, check trail updates, and talk to a ranger for local advice.
” Just outside, take a photo with the Sentinel Tree—the 13th largest sequoia in the area. “
8:30 AM – General Sherman Tree
Then drive about 2 miles to reach the General Sherman Tree parking area. This is the main attraction—the largest tree in the world by volume. A short, paved trail leads to the tree. It’s easy going down but a bit steep coming back up, so take your time. Standing near General Sherman, you’ll feel amazed by its size. Its base is over 36 feet wide, and it’s believed to be 2,200 years old. Spend around 30 to 45 minutes enjoying the view and taking pictures.
9:30 AM – Congress Trail
Add more to your visit with the Congress Trail, a 2-mile paved path that begins close to the General Sherman Tree. This calm and easy walk takes you through groups of giant trees like the President Tree and the Senate Group. You’ll find signs along the way that explain the sequoia forest.
” You might even see deer or chipmunks nearby. Plan about 1.5 hours to enjoy this peaceful walk. “
Midday
11:30 AM – Moro Rock
Drive about 10 minutes to reach the Moro Rock trailhead. This giant granite rock is one of the top spots in Sequoia National Park, offering wide views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The walk is short but a bit steep, with 350 steps built into the rock. It usually takes 20 to 30 minutes for a full round trip. At the top, the view is amazing—sharp peaks, deep valleys, and thick forests stretch out in every direction. Handrails along the steps help make the climb feel safe.
Tip: During summer months, private cars are not allowed on this road. Visitors use the shuttle that leaves near the Giant Forest Museum.
12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch
Once you come down Moro Rock, drive about 10 minutes to the Crescent Meadow picnic area. It’s a peaceful place with tables set among tall trees and green open spaces. Enjoy a simple lunch with sandwiches, fruit, and snacks while relaxing in nature. You might spot marmots or squirrels nearby. Keep food packed away when not eating so animals stay safe and don’t get too close.
Afternoon Adventure
1:30 PM – Crescent Meadow Loop
Put on your hiking boots and get ready for the Crescent Meadow Loop, an easy 2-mile trail filled with natural beauty. Start your walk at the Crescent Meadow parking area and follow the path through open meadows and giant sequoia trees.
The trail stays mostly flat and passes highlights like the Chimney Tree and Tharp’s Log, a large fallen sequoia that once served as a shelter for a pioneer. This quiet trail is great for seeing wildflowers and, if lucky, spotting a black bear at a safe distance. Plan about 1 to 1.5 hours to enjoy the full loop.
3:00 PM – Tunnel Log
Before leaving the Crescent Meadow area, stop at Tunnel Log, a huge fallen sequoia with a tunnel carved through it. You can drive through if your vehicle fits, or park nearby and walk through for a fun photo opportunity. This popular stop may have a small line, but the short wait adds a memorable moment to the day.
Evening Plan
4:30 PM – Beetle Rock
Drive about 10 minutes back toward the Giant Forest Museum and take a short walk to Beetle Rock. This large granite area gives clear views of the open sky and is a great place to watch the sunset.
As the sun goes down, the sky often turns beautiful shades of pink and purple over the mountains. Bring a jacket because the air gets cool at this high spot, around 7,000 feet above sea level. Plan to spend 30 to 45 minutes here, sitting back and thinking about the amazing day you had.
6:00 PM – Dinner and Rest
If you are staying at Wuksachi Lodge, have dinner at its restaurant, which offers filling meals like burgers, pasta, and salads. Campers and guests in Three Rivers can enjoy a packed dinner or visit a nearby place such as Sierra Subs and Salads. After dinner, go to your lodging early to get a good night’s rest for the next day.
If you feel energetic, you can also join a seasonal ranger-led stargazing program and admire the bright stars in Sequoia’s clear night sky.
Day 2: Waterfalls, Caves, and Hidden Gems
Day 2 of your Two Day Itinerary for Sequoia National Park explores some of the park’s hidden gems. Enjoy a beautiful hike to a waterfall, take an exciting tour inside a cave, and experience a peaceful drive through stunning landscapes.
In Morning
7:00 AM – Breakfast and Early Start
Begin your day with a good breakfast at your hotel or grab a quick granola bar and coffee to go. Try to reach Lodgepole Visitor Center by 8:00 AM. It is about a 15-minute drive near the Giant Forest area.
The visitor center has exhibits about the park’s geology and wildlife, along with a small shop for souvenirs.
” Check for any trail updates and grab a map if you missed one yesterday. “
8:30 AM – Tokopah Falls Hike
Head to Lodgepole Campground where the Tokopah Falls trail starts. This trail is 3.8 miles round trip with a steady, easy climb and about 626 feet of elevation gain. It follows the Marble Fork of the Kaweah River, passing granite cliffs, wildflowers, and flowing streams.
At the end of the trail, you will see Tokopah Falls, a 1,200-foot waterfall cascading down a rocky slope. The falls are most powerful during spring and early summer when the snow is melting. Plan to spend about 2 to 2.5 hours hiking, relaxing by the falls, and taking photos.
Midday
11:30 AM – Crystal Cave
Take a 50-minute guided tour of Crystal Cave, a marble cavern filled with beautiful stalactites and stalagmites. The cave is about a 30-minute drive along Generals Highway near Lodgepole.
” Tickets must be bought online early through the Sequoia Parks Conservancy because they sell out quickly. Please note that the cave is closed until 2025, so check for updates. “
The tour includes a half-mile walk to reach the entrance. Inside, the temperature stays cool at 50°F, so it is a good idea to carry a jacket. Plan around 2 hours for driving and the tour.
If the cave is not open, visit the Big Trees Trail instead. It is a 1-mile loop close to the Giant Forest Museum, offering amazing views of giant sequoias.
1:30 PM – Picnic at Hospital Rock
Drive 20 minutes to Hospital Rock, a historic site where you can see Native American pictographs and grinding stones made by the Patwisha people. There are picnic tables and restrooms, making it a great place for lunch. Enjoy your meal while reading the signs that share the area’s rich history. It is a quiet and relaxing stop before starting your afternoon activities.
Afternoon
2:30 PM – Drive to Mineral King
For a real adventure, drive about 1.5 hours to the Mineral King area. The road is narrow and full of curves, so drive slowly and carefully.
RVs and trailers are not allowed here.
This quiet valley sits high at 7,800 feet, surrounded by tall mountains and clear lakes. You can park at the Sawtooth Trailhead and walk the short, 1-mile trail to Monarch Lakes. The full hike is tough, with a 2,500-foot climb over 4.2 miles, but the views of Lower and Upper Monarch Lakes near Sawtooth Peak are stunning.
” If you have less time or want an easier option, enjoy a short walk around the valley to see wildflowers and marmots. Plan about 3-4 hours for the full hike or 1-2 hours for a relaxing stroll. “
Evening: Scenic Drive and Farewell
6:00 PM – Generals Highway Drive
As the sun starts to set, begin your drive back along Generals Highway toward the Ash Mountain Entrance. This 25-mile scenic road links Sequoia and Kings Canyon, offering beautiful stops like Amphitheater Point and Montecito Sequoia Overlook for some final photos.
Take a quick break at Auto Log, a fallen sequoia tree once used as a roadway, for a unique memory. The drive usually takes about 1.5 hours, so you will reach the park exit around 7:30 PM.
7:30 PM – Dinner and Reflection
Enjoy dinner in Three Rivers at a place like River View Restaurant & Lounge, known for its comfort food and relaxing mountain atmosphere. Take time to look back on your 2 days spent in Sequoia National Park, visiting sights like the towering General Sherman Tree and the peaceful Monarch Lakes. You have just explored one of nature’s most amazing wonders.
Extra Tips for an Epic Sequoia Adventure
- Wildlife Safety: Black bears are common, so store food in bear-proof containers and make noise on trails to avoid surprising them. If you see a bear, stay calm, back away slowly, and don’t run.
- Shuttle System: In summer, use the free park shuttle to reach Moro Rock, Crescent Meadow, and other busy spots. It runs from Lodgepole and the Giant Forest Museum, saving you parking hassles.
- Altitude Awareness: Many trails are at 6,000-8,000 feet, so drink plenty of water and take breaks if you feel winded. Acclimatize by arriving a day early if possible.
- Photography Tips: Early morning or late afternoon light is best for capturing the sequoias’ warm glow. Use a wide-angle lens to fit their massive trunks in the frame.
- Extend Your Trip: If you have an extra day, visit Kings Canyon National Park to see the General Grant Tree and Zumwalt Meadow, or explore nearby Yosemite National Park, just 2.5 hours away.
Final Thoughts
Spending 2 days in Sequoia National Park feels like walking into a real-life fairy tale. Giant trees, rocky mountains, and hidden waterfalls create a stunning landscape. This two-day itinerary covers the park’s top sights—General Sherman, Moro Rock, Crescent Meadow, Tokopah Falls, and more—while giving time to enjoy peaceful moments in nature. With good planning and a love for adventure, your trip to Sequoia will be an unforgettable experience.
FAQ’s
How do I get to Sequoia National Park?
Drive 4-5 hours from San Francisco or Los Angeles, or fly into Fresno Yosemite International Airport (1.5 hours away). Rent a car for flexibility, as public transport is limited. Enter via Highway 198 (Ash Mountain) or 180 (Big Stump).
When is the best time to visit Sequoia National Park?
June to August offers warm weather and open trails, but it’s crowded. April-May and September-October have fewer crowds and pleasant conditions.
Where should I stay during my 2 days in Sequoia National Park?
Stay at Wuksachi Lodge or Lodgepole Campground inside the park for convenience. Outside, Three Rivers or Visalia offer hotels and budget options.
What should I pack for a trip to Sequoia National Park?
Bring hiking shoes, a reusable water bottle, sunscreen, layers, and snacks. A map or offline GPS app is essential due to spotty cell service.
Is the General Sherman Tree accessible for all visitors?
The half-mile trail to General Sherman is paved but steep in parts. Wheelchair-accessible parking and a shuttle are available in summer.
Are there food options inside Sequoia National Park?
Wuksachi Lodge has a restaurant, and Lodgepole Market offers snacks. Pack a picnic, as dining options are limited within the park.
Can I visit Crystal Cave during my 2 days in Sequoia?
Crystal Cave tours are available in summer but closed until 2025. Book tickets online in advance, as they sell out quickly.
Are pets allowed in Sequoia National Park?
Pets are allowed in campgrounds and picnic areas but not on trails or in shuttle buses. Keep them leashed and never leave them unattended.
What if I want to extend my trip beyond 2 days?
Add a day to explore Kings Canyon’s General Grant Tree or Zumwalt Meadow, or visit Yosemite National Park, 2.5 hours away, for more adventure.
